EmploymentScheme – Centre Releases Draft Framework for New Rural Jobs Mission
EmploymentScheme – The Union government on Saturday issued the draft regulations for the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, inviting public feedback before the programme comes into force nationwide from July 1. The proposed framework has been circulated for consultation across all states and Union Territories as part of preparations for implementing the new rural employment initiative.
Draft Rules Opened for Public Consultation
The Ministry of Rural Development said the draft regulations have been prepared under Section 33 and related provisions of the newly enacted law. Officials stated that placing the rules in the public domain is aimed at collecting suggestions and responses from stakeholders before the final version is notified.
According to the ministry, the consultation process is intended to encourage wider participation from state governments, policy experts, institutions, civil society groups, and members of the public. Authorities believe this approach will help strengthen transparency and improve the overall implementation mechanism of the scheme.
Key Areas Covered Under the Proposed Framework
The draft rules outline several operational and administrative aspects linked to the rollout of the new rural employment programme. These include the structure and responsibilities of the National Level Steering Committee, the Central Gramin Rozgar Guarantee Council, and guidelines related to administrative expenditure.
The framework also contains provisions for grievance handling systems, wage payments, unemployment allowance procedures, and financial approvals for spending beyond standard allocations. Separate financial arrangements for Union Territories without legislatures have also been included in the proposal.
Government officials explained that the rules are designed to create a comprehensive administrative and governance structure for implementing the Act across the country in a coordinated manner. The intention is to ensure smoother functioning of the programme from the beginning of its rollout.
Transition From MGNREGA to the New Scheme
One of the major elements in the draft concerns the transition process from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to the newly proposed VB-G RAM G scheme. The draft transitional provisions explain how the shift from the existing programme to the new employment guarantee mission will be carried out.
The Centre has proposed measures to ensure that ongoing projects under MGNREGA are not disrupted during the transition period. The rules also provide clarity on handling pending liabilities, transferring official records, and maintaining continuity in worker-related documentation.
Protection of Worker Rights During Transition
Officials said the transition guidelines are intended to protect workers and beneficiaries while states move toward adopting the new scheme. Existing job cards verified through e-KYC procedures will continue to remain valid during the transition phase until individual states formally notify the new system.
The draft also states that workers’ entitlements and rights under the employment programme will continue during this period, reducing the possibility of interruptions in wage payments or employment access.
Nationwide Rollout Scheduled From July
The Centre plans to implement the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act across all states and Union Territories from July 1. The government expects the public consultation process to help refine the final rules before the official rollout begins.
Officials added that feedback received during the consultation period would be reviewed carefully before the framework is finalised. The ministry believes the updated structure will support better governance, financial management, and accountability in rural employment delivery across India.